Problems With Automatic Transmissions

Whether you have an automatic or a manual transmission, problems may arise with it. In order to properly diagnose the problem, you must know a few things about issues that commonly occur with the transmission. Remember, diagnosing the problem correctly is the first step to correcting the issue.

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid is the blood of the transmission. In other words, it is absolutely necessary for your fluid levels to be adequate and flow properly throughout the mechanism. Leaks sometimes occur in the lines or the device itself, which leads to low levels. Check for leaks, because low levels of fluid are associated with damaging the entire part. Evaluate the color of the fluid, also.

Problems with the Gears

While you do not have to shift gears, the automatic transmission still has gears. A gear may blow completely, which means you will be unable to use a certain gear. You might notice the gears slipping, delayed shifting or rough shifting. Gears wear out over time.

Filter

The filter in your transmission needs change regularly for the car part to function properly. If not, all the dirty and debris will be flowing through the transmission.

Solenoids

Your shift solenoids sometimes go bad. These pieces are responsible for shifting in an automatic transmission setup, so you experience delayed shifting or prohibit you from shifting passed a certain gear.

Governor

Your transmission's governor may fail. This valve has the important job of telling the transmission how fast the vehicle is going based upon how fast this mechanism spins.